Barty to make Hopman Cup debut

Australian teenager Ashleigh Barty will make her Hyundai Hopman Cup debut following the withdrawal of Casey Dellacqua due to a foot injury.

Barty, who won 2011 Junior Wimbledon, will partner Bernard Tomic when the event kicks off at the Perth Arena on 29 December.

“I’m really looking forward to playing,” said the 16-year-old Queenslander. “It will be an incredible experience to compete against some of the world’s best players and will be an amazing start to the summer for me.

“I’ve learnt so much this year and I think my game has matured a lot. I’ve played more professional events this year and Hopman Cup is going to be a real opportunity to play against the top players. I can’t wait.

“The new Perth Arena is amazing and it’s going to be really special to be a part of the first Hopman Cup to be held there.”

Barty and Tomic will form the youngest partnership of the eight teams to contest the event on the west coast of Australia, with their combined ages totalling a mere 36.

“We are delighted Ash has confirmed for Hyundai Hopman Cup,” said event director Steve Ayles. “She’s one of the most promising girls in her age group and is already making a successful transition from juniors to the Pro Tour, this year winning four singles and four doubles titles.

“Ash and Bernard are definitely two of the most talented players in their generation. Ash is one of the youngest ranked players in the WTA at 175, an amazing achievement at just 16, and Bernard is the youngest player in the top 100.

“What a great opportunity for the people of Perth to see these two players as their careers are just beginning to blossom.”

Dellacqua was forced to withdraw from the event in her home town of Perth after being diagnosed with a peroneus brevis tear in her foot.